A welfare check on a newborn infant in a Mississippi home led to the discovery of a house of horrors, with authorities uncovering evidence of severe neglect of the child and multiple animals. The Panola County Sheriff’s Department received a call on September 14 to check on the nine-day-old baby at a residence on Morris Lane.
Upon entering the home, deputies were met with deplorable living conditions, prompting them to immediately contact Child Protective Services. The infant was subsequently taken into protective custody due to the hazardous environment.
A further search of the property revealed a five-year-old mare in dire need of care, having been left without food or water. The horse has since been rescued by Mississippi Horses, a local organization dedicated to equine welfare.
In addition to the horse, authorities found eight dogs and a cat on the property, all of which were found to be in various stages of neglect. The animals have since been rescued and are receiving the care they need.
As a result of the investigation, three individuals have been charged in connection with the neglect of the child and animals. Steven Archer, 32, is facing charges of animal cruelty, while Kaitlyn Kirtley, 28, is charged with animal cruelty and confining an animal without food and water. Angel Brimhall, 28, is charged with child deprivation.
Both Archer and Kirtley have been released from Panola County Jail after posting bond. The investigation is ongoing, but Sheriff Shane Phelps expressed gratitude that deputies were able to intervene when they did, stating that the conditions in the home were unacceptable for a child.
